Nursing Elites

1. During a focused assessment for a client with dysrhythmias, what indicates ineffective cardiac contractions?

• A. Increased heart rate
• B. Pulse deficit
• C. Elevated blood pressure
• D. Bounding pulse

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A pulse deficit is a crucial finding in clients with dysrhythmias as it indicates ineffective cardiac contractions. A pulse deficit occurs when the apical heart rate is faster than the radial pulse rate, suggesting that some heartbeats are not generating a pulse. This can be a sign of serious heart conditions like atrial fibrillation or heart failure. The other options, such as an increased heart rate (choice A), elevated blood pressure (choice C), and bounding pulse (choice D), do not specifically indicate ineffective cardiac contractions and are not directly associated with dysrhythmias.

2. A nurse is preparing to perform a focused respiratory assessment on a client with COPD. What is an expected finding?

• A. Normal respiratory rate
• B. Nasal flaring
• C. Decreased breath sounds
• D. Increased breath sounds

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Nasal flaring is an expected finding in clients with COPD who are experiencing respiratory distress. Nasal flaring is a sign of increased work of breathing and respiratory distress, commonly seen in clients with COPD exacerbation. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. A normal respiratory rate would not be an expected finding in a client with COPD, as they often have an increased respiratory rate. Decreased breath sounds could indicate diminished airflow but are not typically a common finding in COPD. Increased breath sounds are not typical in COPD and could indicate other conditions like pneumonia.

3. A client with a new diagnosis of hypertension is receiving discharge teaching. What should the nurse emphasize regarding lifestyle changes?

• A. Limit sodium intake to 2 grams per day
• B. Increase fluid intake to 2 liters per day
• C. Avoid potassium-rich foods
• D. Avoid alcohol consumption

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to increase fluid intake to 2 liters per day. Adequate fluid intake helps manage hypertension and prevent fluid retention. Limiting sodium intake, avoiding potassium-rich foods, and abstaining from alcohol are important aspects of managing hypertension; however, in this scenario, emphasizing the increase in fluid intake is crucial for the client's understanding and compliance.

4. A client with diabetes mellitus is being taught about foot care by a nurse. Which instruction should the nurse include?

• A. Cut toenails straight across
• B. Wear shoes at all times
• C. Apply lotion between the toes
• D. Soak feet in hot water daily

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to 'Wear shoes at all times.' This instruction is crucial for preventing foot injuries in clients with diabetes mellitus. Wearing shoes protects the feet from potential injuries and reduces the risk of developing foot ulcers. Cutting toenails straight across (not in a rounded shape) helps prevent ingrown toenails. Applying lotion between the toes can create a moist environment, increasing the risk of fungal infections. Soaking feet in hot water daily can lead to dry skin and potentially cause burns, which is not recommended for individuals with diabetes.

5. A client expresses anxiety about an upcoming surgery. What should the nurse do?

• A. Administer a sedative
• B. Ask the client to describe their feelings
• C. Call the surgeon to address the anxiety
• D. Provide information on post-op care

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a client expresses anxiety, it is essential for the nurse to encourage the client to verbalize their feelings. This helps the client express concerns, fears, and uncertainties, enabling the nurse to provide appropriate emotional support. Administering a sedative (Choice A) should not be the initial response as it does not address the underlying emotional needs of the client. Calling the surgeon to address anxiety (Choice C) may not be within the nurse's scope of practice and may not directly address the client's emotional needs. Providing information on post-op care (Choice D) is important but not the priority when the client is experiencing anxiety preoperatively.

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